Why is my tortoise's neck swollen, and he's not eating or active?

Thanks for reaching out about Tuffy. Swelling on the side of the head are likely inner ear infections. Vitamin A deficiencies are common causes. Antibiotics in the water will do little as turtles do not drink much, systemic antibiotics are required to treat. These can be given orally (difficult to do without being bitten) or through injections. But the diet needs to be corrected to include vitamin A rich foods. Since turtles create very thick pus, minor surgical procedures need to be performed to remove the pus. You might need to see another veterinarian with more reptile experience. Good luck.

Hello. You really need to find a veterinarian that treats exotics. This much swelling could be a sign of heart disease, but other issues can be at hand. I hope you can have her checked out soon. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hello! This appears to be something called an "aural abscess" that is common in red eared sliders. It is generally the result of not eating enough Vitamin A in the diet or living in water that is not filtered enough. I would recommend taking Hunny into a vet to have the abscess cleaned out, then working on improving his diet and water quality. I hope this is helpful!

Thanks for reaching out about Flippy and including a photo. The eyes and neck are swollen, and by your description, it appears he has a respiratory infection. A veterinary visit is recommended to assess and provide a diagnostic/treatment plan that should include a vitamin A and calcium injections and systemic antibiotics. The diet and husbandry practices need to be reviewed and corrected. Good luck.

Continue to treat as indicated by your veterinarian. Offer a varied diet rich in Vitamin A. Broccoli, carrots, cantaloupe, dandelion greens and collard greens are just a few foods rich in this vitamin. Confirm proper temperature. A cold tortoise will not eat. Soak him in a warm 50/50 solution of water and unflavored PediaLyte for 30 minutes. This will warm him up and may treat or prevent mild dehydration.

This can be due to vitamin A deficiency, infection, poor water quality or lighting that is too intense/direct. You can address environmental concerns but you may need a vet to diagnose and treat infection or deficiency. Feeding a commercial turtle food along with fresh veggies and greens (or prey) will help balance the diet. Vitamin and mineral supplementation is also recommended. Click on the link below for more information. http://www.anapsid.org/reslider.html

Thanks for reaching out about Ketchup. Swollen eyes are likely infections, possibly due to a vitamin A deficiency. A veterinary visit is recommended. She is probably is not trying to hibernate but is weak/sick. Systemic antibiotics and vitamin A supplementation are also probably needed. A thermometer is needed to provide POTZ (Preferred Optimal Temperature Zone), which is require for immune stimulation and recovery. Good luck.